Program with copy function and information recording medium recording the program thereon

ABSTRACT

User  2  can obtain first information recording medium  10  in which a copying program is recorded, whereby the copying program copies image data specified by signals from specified image data copy signals, and an image data display program and setting information to display the image data by a predetermined method, into second information recording medium  11,  and user  2  can display or process the image data which is previously recorded in said information recording medium by the image display program, as well as the image data in other memory means, and can automatically copy the targeted image data, the image display program and setting information, by clicking buttons which are previously formed on a screen of the image display program.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a program having a copying function andan information recording medium having the same program, and inparticular, to a program functioning to copy image data and applicationsoftware, as well as to an information recording medium in which thesame program has been recorded.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In order to view photographic prints which a user captured by a camera,a user generally orders print service of an exposed film to an orderreceiving shop, such as a mini-laboratory or a photo-service shop of alarge photo-finishing laboratory, after which the user arranges theprints in a photographic album, and views them. Recently, with thepopularization of digital devices, the user downloads picture imagescaptured by a digital camera into a computer terminal, such as apersonal computer, to view the picture images, or the user orders theshop to transfer film images taken by an analog camera to digital imagedata, and thereby the user can view the picture image on a computerterminal.

Further, recently provided has been a handy terminal device, such as acell-phone, incorporating a photo-capturing function. Such a method is away that the picture image data, captured by the photo-capturingfunction, is displayed on the display means of the handy terminaldevice, or the image data is sent from the handy terminal device to thecomputer terminal so that the user can view the image data on thecomputer terminal.

According to the above-mentioned method, the captured images can bestored and controlled as digital data in a hard disk of the computerterminals, or information recording media, such as a CD-R, or a DVD-R,by which it is possible to save the trouble to fix pictures in atraditional album, and additionally, there is no need to store bulkythree dimensional albums, which is a merit. In the case of photographicprints, the user can easily find targeted prints, simply be referring tothe title of the album, however, when the user controls the photographicimage only as digital data, the user must usually find the image data bya difficult alphanumeric file name, which is not convenient to retrievethe targeted images, which is a prosaic problem.

For example, as disclosed in Patent Document JP-A 5-108732, in a systemof silver salt photography, for arranging the pictures in the album, theuser produces the various albums in accordance with concepts of thepictures or in a time-series of events, and when the user wishes to viewthe pictures, the user selects the album, and finds related pictures orviews the arranged layout of various pictures so that the targetedpictures can be easily located. However, in the case of the digitalimages, the user must retrieve the digital images by him/herself, usinga key word which is textual data added onto the file name and the imagedata, alternatively the user must retrieve the images using applicationsoftware.

In order to reduce the above inconvenient matters, the above PatentDocument discloses as below.

Original picture data is recorded in a recording and reproducing devicefrom an original picture input means through an original picturerecording/reproduction control means, and this original picture data isedited by a picture editing means as simplifying it, and it is displayedon a picture display means by an inspected picturerecording/reproduction control means, and simultaneously, the procedureof editing is recorded previously by an editing informationrecording/reproduction control means, and as for the picture designatedby an output picture designating means, the high-definition outputpicture data generated by an output picture data generating means byusing the original picture data in accordance with editing informationis generated, and the picture is outputted (printed) by a picture outputmeans like a printer, etc.

When the user edits the original picture images and retrieves them,using the method disclosed in the above Patent Document, the user caneasily view the targeted pictures in the form of an album, similar toconventional silver salt pictures, via the simplified image data.Thereby, when the user prints a page of the digital album or a pictureimage, the user can obtain a clear image, using a highly accurateoriginal image data.

[Patent Document 1] JP-A 5-108732 (pages 3-6, and FIG. 1)

The user can retrieve the targeted pictures from the recorded image datausing the above method. However, in order to use the photographic imageas image data, the user is requested to prepare by him/herself variouskinds of application software for not only displaying the image data butalso executing the process for treating the image data. In this case,the application software includes a program for displaying the imagedata in the form of an album, a program for displaying a slide show, aprogram for processing the image data, and a program for producing apost card or a designed print from the image data.

Further, in order to perform the process of the above applicationsoftware, the user is requested to select, on each occasion, thetargeted image data from the hard disk or the memory means, such as aninformation recording medium, in which the image data are stored, stillfurther, the user is requested to set processing conditions for thevarious kinds of the application software, which can be quite cumbersomeand time consuming. Specifically, owing to the popularization of digitaldevices, such as digital cameras, and cell-phones incorporating a camerafunction, and further, under the condition that the population takingdigital photos increases, if the user is always requested to perform theabove tasks whenever desiring the images, it is impossible to casuallyretrieve the digital image data.

Yet further, it is a common case in which the user captures images andenjoys them personally, or shares the images with friends as a gift. Inorder to effectively enjoy the digital images, it is necessary that onlythe necessary image data and the application software are recorded intothe information recording medium, such as a CD-R (compactdisk-readable). Though the information recording media, such as CD-R orDVD-R (digital versatile disk minus readable), are relativelyinexpensive, a writing software must ordinarily be used, and thereby itis impossible to easily copy the necessary image data and theapplication software into the CD-R or DVD-R, though it is relativelyeasy for a FD (floppy disk) or an MO (magneto-optical disk). It is lessfeasible for a user, who is not skillful in the operation of a computerterminal, to employ a computer terminal with CD-R or DVD-R. Yet further,since the above information recording media are used to display theimage data on the computer terminal, they cannot be used on an imagereproducing devices, such as a DVD player or a DVD recorder, havinghigher operationality.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention has been achieved with a view toward theabove-described problems. The major objects of this invention is toprovide a program including a copy function which records image data aswell as the necessary application software to display the image data,into another memory means, and further to provide an informationrecording medium into which the above described program is recorded. Theobject will be attained by the structures described below.

Structure 1

A program, including an image displaying program for using a computer tofunction as an image displaying means to display images on a displaymeans based on image data by a predetermined expressing method, and acopying program for using the computer to function as a receiving meansto receive a specified image data copying signal which specifies imagedata as an object to be copied, whereby the specified image is displayedfrom among the image data by the image displaying program on the displaymeans via the predetermined expressing method, and for using thecomputer to function as a copying means to copy the specified image dataand the image displaying program into a predetermined area, afterreceiving the specified image data copying signal.

Structure 2

In the program described in Structure 1, the image data to be copiedincludes image data which is the original base of the image to bedisplayed on the display means via the predetermined method, or imagedata which have been processed or produced based on the original imagedata.

Structure 3

In the program described in Structure 2, the image data processed orproduced based on the original image data, includes motion image datawhich is one in which predetermined difference data is added to theoriginal image data, or image data used as a design print combined bythe original image data.

Structure 4

The program, described in Structures 1-3, uses the computer to functionas a coping means which copies into the predetermined area, at least anyone of, setting information to display the image on the display meansvia the predetermined method, music/sound information which isreproduced when the image is displayed, or ordering information forordering prints based on the image data.

Structure 5

An information recording medium, including an image displaying programfor using a computer to function as an image displaying means to displayimages on a display means based on image data by a predeterminedexpressing method, and a copying program for using the computer tofunction as a receiving means to receive a specified image data copyingsignal which specifies image data as an object to be copied, whereby aspecified image is displayed from the image data by the image displayingprogram on the display means via the predetermined expressing method,and for using the computer as a copying means to copy specified imagedata and the image displaying program into a predetermined area, afterreceiving the specified image data copying signal.

Structure 6

An information recording medium, including, image data, an imagedisplaying program for using a computer to function as an imagedisplaying means to display images on a display means based on imagedata by a predetermined expressing method, and a copying program forusing the computer to function as a receiving means to receive aspecified image data copying signal which specifies image data as anobject to be copied, whereby a specified image is displayed from theimage data by the image displaying program on the display means via thepredetermined expressing method, and for using the computer as a copyingmeans to copy specified image data and the image displaying program intoa predetermined area, after receiving the specified image data copyingsignal.

Structure 7

An information recording medium, including image data, and a copyingprogram for using the computer to function as a receiving means toreceive a specified image data copying signal which specifies image dataas an object to be copied, and for using the computer as a copying meansto copy specified image data and the image displaying program into apredetermined area, after receiving the specified image data copyingsignal.

Structure 8

The information recording medium, described in Structures 5-7, whereinthe image data to be copied, includes, image data which is the originalbase of the image to be displayed on the display means via thepredetermined method, or image data which have been processed orproduced based on the original image data.

Structure 9

The information recording medium, described in Structure 8, wherein theimage data which have been processed or produced based on the imagedata, includes, motion image data which is one in which a predetermineddifference data is added to the original image data, or image data usedas a design print combined by the original image data.

Structure 10

The information recording medium, described in Structures 5-9, uses thecomputer to function as a coping means which copies into thepredetermined area, at least any one of, setting information to displaythe image on the display means via the predetermined method, music/soundinformation which is reproduced when the image is displayed, or orderinginformation for ordering prints based on the image data.

Structure 11

An information recording medium, which is readable by a computer,including, image data, a first program for the computer to function as areceiving means of print order data signals for a print order based onimage data, and for making the computer to function as a means forproducing a print order data file based on the print order data signals,and a copying program (which is a second program) for the computer tofunction as a receiving means of specified image data copying signals tospecify the image data as a target to be copied, and for the computer tofunction as a copying means to copy, the image data which is specifiedby the specified image data copying signals, the print order data file,and the first program, into a predetermined area, after the computerreceives the specified image data copying signals.

According to the structures of the present invention, the user caneasily obtain the information recording medium on which the copyingprogram is stored, whereby both the targeted image data and the imagedisplaying program for displaying the image data, as occasion demands,via the predetermined method, are paired and copied onto thepredetermined area. Therefore, the user can display the image data usingthe computer terminal or the image reproducing device, such as a DVDplayer or a DVD recorder, and can also perform various processes usingthe image data. Further the user can copy the displayed image data andthe image displaying program as desired into another memory means by asimple operation.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a structural example of information recording mediumoffering systems related to the first embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing the offering procedures of the informationrecording medium, using the information recording medium offering systemrelated to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a means in which a copying program,related to the first embodiment of the present invention, functionswithin the computer terminal.

FIG. 4 is a ladder chart showing the functional procedures in thecomputer terminal, with respect to the program of the first embodimentof the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a structural example of a screen displayed by an imagedisplaying program related to the first embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 6(a) is a structural example of a screen displayed by an imagedisplaying program related to the first embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 6(b) is a structural example of another screen displayed by animage displaying program related to the first embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 6(c) is a structural example of another screen displayed by animage displaying program related to the first embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 7 is a ladder chart showing the operational procedures of aprogram, related to the second embodiment of the present invention, inthe information recording medium producing terminal.

FIG. 8 is a structural example of a screen displayed by an imagedisplaying program related to the second embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 9 is a diagram of the exterior appearance of the informationrecording medium producing terminal of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is another diagram of the exterior appearance of the informationrecording medium producing terminal of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is still another diagram of the exterior appearance of theinformation recording medium producing terminal of the presentinvention.

FIG. 12 is yet another diagram of the exterior appearance of theinformation recording medium producing terminal of the presentinvention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In a preferred embodiment, the program related to the present invention,includes an image displaying program which uses a computer to functionas an image displaying means to display images on a display means basedon image data by a predetermined expressing method, and a copyingprogram which uses the computer to function as a receiving means toreceive a specified image data copying signal which specifies image dataas an object to be copied, whereby a specified image is displayed fromthe image data by the image displaying program on the display means viathe predetermined expressing method, and as a copying means to copy aspecified image data and the image displaying program into a secondinformation recording medium, after receiving the specified image datacopying signal. By using a first information recording medium in whichthe image displaying program is recorded, the user can display the imagedata recorded in the first information recording medium or the imagedata from other recording means, on a computer terminal or an imagereproducing devices, such as DVD players or DVD players, and can executevarious processes. Further, by easily clicking the buttons previouslyprovided on the screens of the various image displaying programs, theuser can automatically copy the targeted image data, the imagedisplaying program, or setting information. Accordingly even the userwho is unaccustomed to the computer terminal, can use the image dataeffectively.

In order to provide further details of the embodiments of the presentinvention, the embodiments will be detailed referring to the drawings.Additionally, the image data, described in the embodiments, is a genericname of the data including image information, and the image dataincludes still image data as well as motion image data.

Firstly, the program and the information recording medium in which thesaid program is recorded, related to the first embodiment of the presentinvention, will be explained, referring to FIGS. 1-6, and FIGS. 9-12.FIG. 1 shows the structure of the system for offering the informationrecording medium for the user, in which programs include copyingfunctions related to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a flowchart showingthe procedure of offering the information recording medium to the user.FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the means in which the copying programmakes the computer function. FIG. 4 is a ladder chart showing theprocedure of processes executed via the computer terminal. FIG. 5 andFIGS. 6(a), (b), and (c) show examples of structures of the screendisplayed on the user's computer terminal. FIGS. 9-12 show the exteriorappearance of various information recording medium producing terminals.

As shown in FIG. 1, information recording medium offering system 1 ofthe present embodiment includes user 2, information recording mediumoffering shop 3 (shop 3 which offers information recording medium), andphoto-service shop 4. In system 1, user 2 offers digital camera 5,cell-phone 6 incorporating a camera, and information recording medium 7,all of which have recorded photographic image data, and may also offerboth of film 8 and photographic prints 9, on both of which photographicimages are recorded. Information recording medium offering shop 3 readsout image data from digital camera 5 (including digital still camerasand digital video cameras), cell-phone 6 incorporating a camera, andinformation recording medium 7, and further, offers first informationrecording medium 10 in which the image displaying program for displayingthe image data, as well as the copying program for recording the imagedata and the image displaying program has been recorded. Photo-serviceshop 4, such as a mini-laboratory or a large photo-finishing laboratory,obtains the image data from film 8 or photographic prints 9 submitted byuser 2. Additionally, it is possible that information recording mediumoffering shop 3 and photo-service shop 4 may be within housed in thesame shop.

Further, information recording medium offering shop 3 is provided withinformation recording medium producing terminal 3 a for reading out theimage data from digital camera 5, cell-phone 6 incorporating a camera,and information recording medium 7. Still further, photo-service shop 4is provided with developing means 4 a for developing undeveloped film,reading means 4 b for reading out the image data from developed negativefilm or photographic prints 9, writing means 4 c for writing theread-out image data onto first information recording medium 10, andmemory means 4 d for storing the image displaying program and thecopying program. Still further, user 2 is provided with computerterminal 2 a for recording the targeted image data and the imagedisplaying program onto second information recording medium 11, usingthe copying program stored on first information recording medium 10.User 2 may offer second information recording medium 11 to other users12 as desired.

Information recording medium producing terminal 3 a and computerterminal 2 a can be structured as desired. For example, as shown in FIG.9, information recording medium producing terminal 3 a can be formed tobe a kiosk type which is installed in a shop, such as a conveniencestore. As shown in FIG. 10, a set-top box can be formed which is anexclusive function. A portable writer in FIG. 11, or a personal computerin FIG. 12 may also be used. For these purposes, a DVD player or a DVDrecorder, incorporating an operational processing means or a memorymeans, may be used as well. In the following description, an “imagedisplaying program” means a program for reading image data anddisplaying said image on a display device, such as a personal computer,or a device having an image display function, such as a DVD player and aDVD recorder. The simplest way is one which reads the image data anddirectly displays the image. A more viewable means is one which displaysa plurality of the images in the matrix form shown in FIG. 8, whereinwhen user 2 clicks once on a desired image, the image is selected forthe copy, when the user 2 clicks twice on the same image, the selectionis cancelled, and when the user 2 pushes a copy button, the image datafor the selected images and an index display program are copied onto ablank CD-R (hereinafter referred to as a blank CD). As a furtherdeveloped form, the “image displaying program” means a program fordisplaying the image via a predetermined display method based on theimage data, such as a slide show program for showing a series of slides,an album producing program for displaying the image data in a form of anelectronic album, a design producing program for producing and orderingpost cards or specially designed prints based on the image data, areordering and producing program for reordering the prints of selectedimage data, and a back-up program for preserving the image data.Information recording medium 7 includes Compact Flash (a registeredtrademark), any type of memory card, such as a Smart Media, a MemoryStick (a registered trademark), a Multimedia card, or an SD memory card,CD-R/RW, DVD+R/RW, DVD-RAM, Blu-ray disk, MO, and ZIP. First informationrecording medium 10 and second information recording medium 11 includeCD-R/RW, DVD±R/RW, DVD-RAM, and Blu-ray disk.

In information recording medium offering system 1 described above, theprocedure, for offering user 2 first information recording medium 10 inwhich the image displaying program and the copying program have beenstored, is detailed in the flowchart of FIG. 2. Additionally, thepresent invention offers first information recording medium 10 which canbe used for any one of or both of the computer terminals, such as apersonal computer, and the image reproducing device, such as a DVDplayer or a DVD recorder. When it is used for a computer terminal, theimage displaying program is necessary, but when it is used for an imagereproducing device, it is possible to reproduce the image data withoutthe image displaying program, that is, the image displaying program isnot always necessary. The case wherein first information recordingmedium 10 used for the computer terminal is offered will be describedbelow.

Firstly, in step S101 in FIG. 2, user 2 purchases first informationrecording medium 10, in which the image displaying program and thecopying program have already been stored, at information recordingmedium offering shop 3. The function of the copying program will bedetailed later. As shown in FIG. 3, the copying program makes thecomputer function as copy signal receiving means 13 a, copy dataproducing means 13 b, and writing mean 13 c. Copy signal receiving means13 a receives the specified image data copy signals which specify theimage data displayed by the image displaying program, as the targetedimage data to be copied. Copy data producing means 13 b produces thecopy data which includes the image data specified by the specified imagedata copy signals (the image data means the original image data or theimage data produced based on the original image data), the imagedisplaying program which is used for displaying said image data, and thedata (for example, setting data for setting the display method of theimage displaying program) relating to the image data as desired. Writingmeans 13 c copies the copy data to a predetermined memory means, such asa CD-R.

Though only the image displaying program and the copying program can bestored into first information recording medium 10, the image data canalso be stored, which is used by the image displaying program. In stepS102, user 2 determines whether the image data is to be stored in firstinformation recording medium 10, when the image data is to be stored, instep S 103, the user inserts first information recording medium 10,which user 2 bought, into information recording medium producingterminal 3 a in information recording medium offering shop 3, andfurther, user 2 connects digital camera by which the image was captured,and cell-phone 5 incorporating the camera to information recordingmedium producing terminal 3 a. Yet further, user 2 inserts informationrecording medium 7 in which the image data was stored. In step S104,user 2 operates information recording medium producing terminal 3 awhich writes the targeted image data onto first information recordingmedium 10 (see FIG. 1).

In the above explanation, user 2 firstly bought first informationrecording medium 10, and then operated information recording mediumproducing terminal 3 a to write the image data onto first informationrecording medium 10. However, in FIG. 1, a structure is also possible insuch way that, firstly, the image displaying program and the copyingprogram are previously stored in information recording medium producingterminal 3 a, next, when the image data, read out from digital camera 5,cell-phone 6 incorporating the camera, or information recording medium7, all of which are offered by user 2, are written, the image displayingprogram and the copying program are also written into first informationrecording medium 10. Additionally, if the image displaying program hasbeen previously installed into computer terminal 2 a, a structure isalso possible in such way that only the copying program or only both thecopying program and the image data are stored in first informationrecording medium 10.

Further, in FIG. 1, a structure is also possible in such way that whenuser 2 brings undeveloped film 8 or photographic print 9 intoinformation recording medium offering shop 3, film 8, print 9, and thefirst information recording medium which user 2 bought are sent tophoto-service shop 4, where film 8 is developed by developing means 4 a,and the developed film or photographic print 9 is read out by readingmeans 4 b, and the read-out image data is stored in first informationrecording medium 10 by writing means 4 c. Still further, anotherstructure is also possible in such way that film 8 or photographic print9 is sent to photo-service shop 4, where film 6 is developed, and thedeveloped film or photographic print 9 is read out, after which theread-out image data, the image displaying program and the copyingprogram stored in memory means 4 d are stored in first informationrecording medium 10. Still further, it is also possible to structure insuch way that only the read-out image data is stored into anotherinformation recording medium, which is offered to user 2. Additionally,if the image displaying program and the copying program are not storedinto first information recording medium 10 at photo-service shop 4,memory means 4 d is not necessary.

User 2 receives first information recording medium 10 in which the imagedisplaying program and the copying program were stored, or receivesfirst information recording medium 10 in which the image displayingprogram, the copying program, and the image data offered by user 2 werestored. In step S105, user 2 inserts first information recording medium10 into computer terminal 2 a, if the image displaying program is notinstalled in computer terminal 2 a, user 2 installs the image displayingprogram and activates the image displaying program. Additionally, asanother way, a structure is also possible in such way that user 2directly activates the image displaying program, without installing theprograms stored in first information recording medium 10, into thecomputer terminal 2 a. Next, in step S106, user 2 reads out the imagedata stored in first information recording medium 10, or the image datastored the exterior memory means, and displays them on a convenientdisplay means such as a monitor. In this case, the image data means theimage data stored in the hard disk of computer terminal 2 a, or theimage data stored in digital camera 5 or cell-phone 6 incorporating acamera, or the image data stored in another information recordingmedium, based on film 8 or photographic print 9, at photo-service shop4.

In step S107, the targeted image displaying program is selected. In stepS108, user 2 performs various processes in which the targeted image datais selected from among the displayed image data via the image displayingprogram selected in step S107, a slide show is produced of the selectedimage data, or the motion image data is produced by the image data(which is still image data), and further, a digital album, a designprint, or re-ordering data are produced.

In step S109, user 2 pushes a button or a key which is previouslyprovided on a picture screen, displayed by the image displaying program,and activates the copying program so that user 2 stores the image dataand the image displaying program to display the targeted image data ontoa predetermined area (for example, second information recording medium11). Additionally, the image data to be stored into the secondinformation recording medium is not limited to original image data. Thatis, the data which is processed and produced based on the original imagedata can also be included (for example, motion image data or album imagedata, produced based on still image data, and image data of compositedesign prints). Further, both the original image data and the processedand produced image data can also be included. Yet further, variousrelevant data can also be included, such as setting data for displayingthe image data by the image displaying program, music/sound data whichis reproduced when the image data is displayed, or print ordering data.

Next, user 2 inserts second information recording medium 11 produced bythe above-described procedure into computer terminal 2 a, and displaysthe targeted image data using the targeted processing program, or offerssecond information recording medium 11 to other user 12 who is a friendor an acquaintance, shown in step S110.

In this way, at information recording medium offering shop 3 orphoto-service shop 4, user 2 obtains first information recording medium10 in which an image displaying program, a copying program, and imagedata as desired were stored. Therefore, without special installation ofthe image displaying program, user 2 can easily display the image data,and easily store a set of the targeted image data, the image displayingprogram, and the relevant data as desired, by using the copying program.Namely, user 2 can easily produce second information recording medium 11which is customized for the special use, such as a gift to other user12. Furthermore, by additionally storing the copying program into secondinformation recording medium 11, other user 12 can produce anothercustomized information recording medium (which is not illustrated).

Next, in the case that computer terminal 2 a is employed, the procedureof the process, in which first information recording medium 10 is used,will be detailed, referring to the ladder chart in FIG. 4, and examplesof the screen structures shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. In the example detailedin the explanation below, the image data has been previously stored infirst information recording medium 10. However, it is also possible touse the image data stored in the memory means except for firstinformation recording medium 10, such as a hard disk, an MO drive, or aPC card drive, all of which are included in computer terminal 2 a, andcan be accessed from CPU 11. Further, it is also possible to use theimage data which has been stored in an external memory means, such as aserver or a computer, via the network. Additionally, as the imagedisplaying program, a slide show program via a personal computer is usedin the explanation below, but the copying procedure via a copyingprogram is also available in other image displaying programs.

[Slide Show Program for Personal Computer]

Firstly, user 2 inserts first information recording medium 10 into aread/write section of computer terminal 2 a [(a) in FIG. 4]. (In thiscase, the first information recording medium is a CD-R, and therefore, aCD-R drive is used. If another information recording medium, such as aDVD-R, a PD, or a ZIP, is used, a specific drive for each medium isrequired.) CPU of computer terminal 2 a notes the entrance of a CD-R. Ifthe image displaying program stored in the CD-R has already beeninstalled in computer terminal 2 a, the CPU activates the installedprogram, but if the image displaying program stored in the CD-R has notyet been installed in computer terminal 2 a, user 2 installs the imagedisplaying program, after which the CPU activates the installed program[(b) in FIG. 4]. If a single kind of image displaying program is used,said program is to be activated, but if a plurality of the imagedisplaying programs are used, a structure is possible in such way that amenu program is firstly activated, after which the image displayingprogram can be selected on a menu screen.

CPU orders the CD-R drive to read the image data [(c) in FIG. 4]. CD-Rdrive then transfers the image data stored in CD-R to a storage means,such as a memory [(d) in FIG. 4]. CPU produces an album data from theimage data transferred from the storage [(e) in FIG. 4]. The displaydevice such as a monitor displays an album display screen having aworking menu [(f) in FIG. 4]. The album display screen having theworking menu is shown in FIG. 5.

Displayed on album display screen 14 featuring the working menu, forexample, are tag display section 15 showing a “source” of the imagedata, album display section 16 listing the image data using reducedimages (thumbnail images), and working menu section 17 for selecting ausable image displaying program. “Source” means that the “CD” showingfirst information recording medium 10, the “favorites file” showing astoring section of the image data which user 2 stores as favoriteimages, and the “from file” showing the hard disk of computer terminal 2a, the information recording medium produced from a negative film orprint by photo-service shop 4, or a medium used in the digital camera 5,and “from digital camera” showing digital camera 5 or cell-phone 5incorporating a camera.

In FIG. 5, seven kinds of the working menus are shown, that is, “PCslide show” displays the slides, while sequentially changing the imagedata on the personal computer, “DVD slide show” writes the motion imagedata, produced based on the image data, onto the recording medium insuch a way that the motion image data can be displayed via a DVD player,“album production” produces a digital album using the image data,“design production” produces a designed print of a post card using theimage data, “re-order print” orders re-prints of the image data, “backupprocessing image data” backs up the image data via a predeterminedprocess, and “just back-up” merely produces backup data. However theworking menus are not limited to those above, and it is also possible todisplay various programs, which display the image by predetermineddisplay methods based on the image data.

For example, by using the input device, such as a mouse, a keyboard, ora touch panel, when user 2 selects the targeted program among the imagedisplaying programs displayed on working menu section 17 in FIG. 5 (inthis case, “PC slide show” is selected), the instruction, requiringdisplay of the slide show production menu, is sent from the input deviceto CPU [(g) in FIG. 4]. The CPU then displays slide show production menudisplay screen 18 [(h) in FIG. 4].

On slide show production menu display screen 18, slide show settingsection 19 and selected image data display section 20 are displayed.Slide show setting section 19 includes an area for displaying the imagedata as the list, as well as an area for setting the image intervalduring the slide show, transition effects, and BGM (back ground music)during the slide show. Selected image data display section 20 displaysthe image data to be reproduced for the slide show. FIG. 6(a) shows thatthe still image data is recorded as the image data, but the motion imagedata as well as still image data can also be recorded, and for thiscase, the still image data and the motion image data are mixed anddisplayed on a list display section, as shown in FIG. 6(b). User 2 candistinguish between the still image data and the motion image data bynoting extensions, but in order that user 2 can more early distinguishthem at a glance, display forms of both types of image data can bechanged. FIG. 6(b) is an example showing the image data obtained byreading out image information recorded on the film. For displaying theimage data recorded in information recording medium 7, shown in FIG.6(c), the still image data and the motion image data recorded ininformation recording media 7 are sorted with respect to eachinformation recording medium 7, and then displayed. Further, fordisplaying the image data recorded in digital camera 5, shown in FIG.6(c), the still image data and the motion image data recorded in digitalcamera 5 are sorted with respect to specific digital cameras 5, anddisplayed.

Using the input device, user 2 selects the image data to display theslides, sets the slide show, sets the BGM, and pushes the start switchof the slide show provided on selected image data display section 20, bywhich slide show production information is sent to the CPU [(i) in FIG.4], after which the CPU performs the display of the slide show on thedisplay device [(j) in FIG. 4]. When only still image data is selected,the slide show is produced based on the conditions established on slideshow setting section 19. When both still image data and motion imagedata are selected, the motion image data, reproduced by the imageinterval, any transition effects, and BGM, established on slide showsetting section 19, is formed in regard to the still image data, whilethe motion image data to be reproduced as a set of the slide show isproduced via combining the motion image data and the selected motionimage data. Additionally, the image based on the motion image data canbe displayed separately from the image based on the still image data,and when the image based on the motion image data is relatively small,the motion image data can be reproduced on the image based on the stillimage data, via another window, and further, when music/soundinformation is included in the motion image data, the sound volume ofBGM can be reduced or muted during reproduction of the motion imagedata.

During the above-described operation, user 2 can monitor the slide show,but if user 2 quits the image displaying program (the slide show programin this case), and wants to display the slide show under the sameconditions, user 2 must re-select the image data, re-set the slide showand re-set the BGM, which is very inconvenient. Further, when the slideshow is not only enjoyed by user 2, but also presented to theacquaintance, it is preferable that only the necessary image data isshown and the slide show is conducted without any complicatedoperations. Accordingly, in the present embodiment, it is possible torecord both the image data and the image displaying program (slide showprogram in this case), selected by user 2, into another informationrecording medium, via a simple operation.

To be more precise, after user 2 checks the slide show, user 2 pushescopy button 21 [which is the “store into CD-R” button in FIG. 6(a)]which is previously provided in selected image data display section 20of slide show production menu display screen 18. Then a signal to copy(which is a selected image data copying signal) is transferred from theinput device to CPU [(k) in FIG. 4], and thereby the copying program isoperated. Since the copying program causes the computer to function ascopy signal receiving means 13 a, copy data producing means 13 b, andwriting means 13 c (see FIG. 3), when copy signal receiving means 13 areceives the signal for giving an order to copy, copy data producingmeans 13 b produces the copy data [(l) in FIG. 4].

The copy data includes the image data selected by user 2 as well as theimage displaying program for displaying the image data, and further, thecopy data can include thumbnail image data, which is used when pluralimage data are shown in the list on the screen. Yet further, the copydata can include related data, such as the setting data, which means theslide display order, image intervals, and transition effects, andmusic/sound data, which is reproduced simultaneously with the imagedata.

When the production of copy data is completed, writing means 13 c startsthe copy operation into a predetermined area (a blank CD inserted CD-Rdrive, in this case), [(m) in FIG. 4]. When the copy operation iscompleted, CD-R drive sends a copy end signal to CPU [(n) in FIG. 4],after which CPU orders CD-R drive to eject the copied CD-R [(o) in FIG.4], as well as displays the end of copy on the display device [(p) inFIG. 4]. Further, CPU orders the storage means to clear the data usedfor copying, and after the order is received, the storage means clearsthe copy data, by which the total operation is completed [(q) in FIG.4].

The above explanation concerns the case in which the slide show isselected as the working menu, however, second information recordingmedium 11 can also be produced in the case in which another operation isselected, the outline of which is described below.

[Slide Show for DVD]

In the case of the PC slide show, the image data is sequentiallydisplayed in the form of slides by the predetermined transition effects,which was described above. In recent years, there was a great increasein the number of user 2 or other user 12, both having available DVDplayers which can reproduce the image data via the DVD-R or CD-R. TheDVD player does not require a long start-up time, which is differentfrom a personal computer, and is easily operated, and a large number ofpeople can view the image data on a DVD player. Accordingly, it isconvenient for the user to reproduce a slide show using a DVD player.

In the present embodiment, a button for the “DVD slide show” is providedin working menu section 17 in FIG. 5. When user 2 pushes said button,the DVD slide show production menu screen (which is not illustrated) isdisplayed. User 2 selects the targeted image data as well as themusic/sound data, and orders the production of the DVD slide show. Ifthe selected image data is still images, the difference data based onspecial predetermined transition effects is added to the image data, andthereby a motion image data is produced. Further, if the selected imagedata includes both still image data and motion image data, firstly themotion image data is produced from the still image data by theabove-described method, then the produced motion image data and theselected motion image data are combined, and finally the combined motionimage data is reproduced as an integrated set of a slide show. Saidmotion image data can be formed as various structures which are usefulin the DVD player, such as MPEGs 1, 2, or 4. Concerning the productionmethod of the motion image data based on the still image data, variousmethods can be used, for example, the method disclosed in JapanesePatent Publication No. 2003-259303 by the inventor of the presentinvention can be used.

After the motion image data is produced, user 2 pushes copy button 21[which is the “store into CD-R” button in FIG. 6(a)] in the DVD slideshow production menu screen, by which signals for giving an order tocopy (which is a selected image data copy signal) is transferred fromthe input device to the CPU, and copy signal receiving means 13 areceives the signal for giving the order to copy, after which copy dataproduction means 13 b produces the copy data including the motion imagedata, the slide show program, the original image data, music/sound data,and the setting data for producing the motion image, and finally,writing means 13 c writes the copy data onto a blank CD, which becomessecond information recording medium 11.

[Album Production]

When the amount of image data becomes excessive, it becomes difficult toselect the targeted image data. In that case, a digital album is veryconvenient, in which a great number of images data can be selected andarranged, and which is very easy to search for a specific image by theuser.

Accordingly, in the present embodiment, an “album production” button isprovided in working menu section 17 in FIG. 5. When said albumproduction button is pressed, an album production menu screen (which isnot illustrated) is displayed. On that album production menu screen,user 2 can classify the image data and can input titles, can inputdetailed information for each image data, or can set the display forturning over the pages of each album. After the production of the album,when user 2 clicks the copy button on the screen, the specified imagedata copy signal is transferred from the input device to the CPU, andcopying signal receiving means 13 a receives the signal (see FIG. 3).Copy data production means 13 b produces the copy data including theselected image data, the album displaying program, and the music/sounddata reproduced with the setting data for an album and the albumdisplay, as desired. Further, writing means 13 c stores the copy dataonto a blank CD so that second information recording medium 11 isproduced.

[Design Production]

In recent years, there has been a huge increase of the number of userswho display their image data onto their computer screen, as well asproduce custom designed prints, such as post cards, based on the imagedata, and therefore, it is very convenient if the design prints areproduced via first information recording medium 10 of the presentembodiment. Further if it is possible that the processed image data, andthe order data, including the size of the custom designed prints, thedesign type of post cards or the name cards, and the number of theproducing prints, are set and stored in the information recordingmedium, the user can easily place an order of the design prints, byintroducing said information recording medium to information recordingmedium offering shop 3, or sending the data to photo-service shop 4 viaa network.

Accordingly, in the present embodiment, a “design production” button isprovided in working menu section 17 in FIG. 5. When said designproduction button is pressed, a design production menu screen (which isnot illustrated) is displayed. On that design production menu screen,user 2 can manipulate the image data as enlargement, reduction orrotation of the image, on a previously set template, further user 2 caninput text to be printed on designed prints, and yet further, can submitordering data, such as the size of the designed prints, and theproduction amount of the designed prints. When print ordering datasignals based on the image data are received, a specific print orderingdata file is produced based on the print ordering data signals. Whenuser 2 clicks the copy button on the screen, the specified image datacopy signal is transferred from the input device to a CPU, wherebycopying signal receiving means 13 a receives the signal (see FIG. 3).Copy data production means 13 b produces the copy data, including thecombined image data, the print ordering data, as well as the program fordisplaying the original image data used for the design prints, the imagedata, and the print ordering data, as desired. Further, writing means 13c stores the copy data onto a blank CD so that second informationrecording medium 11 is produced.

[Print Re-ordering]

In order to re-order the prints, user 2 generally introduces the imagedata to be re-ordered to the print service shop, and the shop describesan ordering sheet. If it is possible to make a set of the image data tobe re-ordered and the ordering sheet, and to store the set onto theinformation recording medium, the user can place a re-order, using saidinformation recording medium, which becomes very convenient.

Accordingly, in the present embodiment, “print re-ordering” button isprovided in working menu section 17 of FIG. 5. When the printre-ordering button is pressed, a print re-ordering menu screen (which isnot illustrated) is displayed. On the print re-ordering menu screen,user 2 can select the image data to be re-ordered, and can produce are-ordering data including ordering information, such as the size andnumber of the prints. After the print ordering data is produced, user 2clicks the copy button of the screen, the specified image data copysignal is transferred from the input device to a CPU, and the copyingprogram works so that copying signal receiving means 13 a receives thesignals (see FIG. 3). Copy data production means 13 b produces the copydata, including the selected image data, the print ordering data, andthe program for displaying the image data, as well as the print orderingdata, as desired. Further, the copying program works so that writingmeans 13 c stores the copy data onto a blank CD, and thereby, secondinformation recording medium 11 is created.

Additionally, concerning the image data and relevant information storedin first information recording medium 10 as well as second informationrecording medium 12, it is preferable to display them in a single filewhen they are viewed from the outside, and further, they are preferablyin a compressed form. Yet further, it is preferable that they are formedin such way that they can be accessed only via an exclusive software.Thereby, data retrieving is simplified, or partial missing of the datais prevented, and which is very beneficial for the user 2 or user 12.Still further, it is possible to obtain a large number of users whoexclusively use the present embodiment.

[Back-up of the Processed Image]

The image data, which is obtained by digital cameras 5 or cell-phone 6incorporating a photo-capturing function, is not always suitable fordisplaying on computer terminal 2 a or for outputting the prints. Thatis, a color management process may be conducted on the image to adjustthe desired color, including brightness and gradation. In this case, itis very cumbersome if the image data is selected and processed image byimage, but it is very convenient if the selected image data can beprocessed as a group, and then backed up.

Accordingly, in the present embodiment, a “processed image back-up”button is provided on working menu section 17 of FIG. 5. When the printre-ordering button is pressed, a processed image back-up production menuscreen (which is not illustrated) is displayed. On the processed imageback-up production menu screen, after user 2 selects the image data tobe processed, user 2 clicks the copy button on the screen, then thespecified image data copy signals are transferred from the input deviceto a CPU. After copying signal receiving means 13 a receives the signals(see FIG. 3), copy data production means 13 b produces the copy data,including the selected and processed image data, the original imagedata, the setting data showing the contents of the process, and theprogram for displaying the image data, as desired. Writing means 13 cstores the copy data onto a blank CD, and thereby, second informationrecording medium 11 is produced.

[Just Back-up]

When photographic images are stored and controlled as image data, ifthere is a problem in the memory means for storing the image data, suchas a hard disk, the image data stored in the memory means cannot be readout, for which reason, back-up data is ordinarily produced. In thiscase, though the back-up data may be produced via the function of an OS(which is operating software), the production of back-up data is veryproblematic for users who are unaccustomed to the operation of apersonal computer.

Accordingly, in the present embodiment, a “just back-up” button isprovided in working menu section 17 of FIG. 5. When the just back-upbutton is pressed, a just back-up production menu screen (which is notillustrated) is displayed. On the just back-up production menu screen,user 2 clicks the copy button on the screen, then the specified imagedata copy signal is transferred from the input device to the CPU. Aftercopying signal receiving means 13 a receives the signals (see FIG. 3),copy data production means 13 b produces the copy data, including theimage data stored in the predetermined memory means (for example, firstinformation recording medium 10), and the program for displaying theimage data, as desired. Writing means 13 c stores the copy data onto ablank CD, and thereby, second information recording medium 11 isproduced.

As described above, user 2 is able to display the image data, via firstinformation recording medium 10, which is offered by the present system.If only user 2 clicks copy button 21 which is previously provided on thescreen of each image display program, user 2 can record onto secondinformation recording medium 11, the image data (original image data,motion image data, and the processed image data) which user 2 selected,the image display program for displaying the image data, and otherrelevant data (the setting data, the ordering data, and the music/sounddata), as desired. Accordingly, when user 2 displays the image data,user 2 need not select the image data or perform setting of the display,which were necessary for the conventional art. If only user 2 activatesnewly produced second information recording medium 11, user 2 is able todisplay the targeted image data via the targeted method.

Described above is the structure, wherein the image display program aswell as the copying program is stored in first information recordingmedium 10, which is to be offered to user 2. However, the presentinvention is not limited to the above structure. That is, also used maybe a structure wherein computer terminal 2 a of user 2, andphoto-service server 200 for offering the program are connected to eachother via communication network 100, and thereby, the program is alsoavailable to user 2 via a network as electrical data.

Next, the program and the information recording medium productionterminal, related to the second embodiment of the present invention,will be detailed, while referring to FIG. 7. FIG. 7 is a ladder chartshowing the procedures which are performed on the information recordingmedium production terminal.

Though these procedures were explained in the above-described firstembodiment, wherein first information recording medium 10, in which theimage displaying program and the copying program were stored, wasoffered to user 2, and second information recording medium 11 wasproduced from first information recording medium 10 via computerterminal 2 a of user 2, it is also possible to activate the copyingprogram of the present invention via information recording mediumproduction terminal 3 a of information recording medium offering shop 3.

Referring to the ladder chart in FIG. 7, the process performed ininformation recording medium production terminal 3 a will now bedescribed. Firstly, user 2 inserts information recording medium 7 intothe input section of information recording medium production terminal 3a (the input section typically means a slot for receiving theinformation recording medium, such as a memory card, floppy disk, or MO,or means a connection terminal for digital camera 5 or cell-phone 6incorporating a photo-capturing function), or connects a digital deviceto the input section [(a) in FIG. 7]. CPU thereby detects informationrecording medium 7 or the digital device [(b) in FIG. 7], and displaysan insertion request of a writable information recording medium (a CD-Rin this case) on a display device, such as a CRT, or a character LCD[(c) in FIG. 7].

After the insertion of CD-R into CD-R drive [(d) in FIG. 7], aninsertion signal of CD-R is transferred from CD-R drive to the storagemeans [(e) in FIG. 7], and on the display device [(f) in FIG. 7], thestorage means requests the user whether to copy or not. Next, user 2orders the execution to copy via an input device, such as a keyboard,push buttons, or a touch panel, after which a copy execution orderingsignal is transferred to CPU [(g) in FIG. 7]. Upon receiving the signal,CPU reads out the image data stored in the information recording mediumor the digital device from the input section, and copies the image dataonto a blank CD-R inserted in the CD-R drive [(h) in FIG. 7].

After the image data is copied onto the CD, CD-R sends a copy end signalto the CPU [(i) in FIG. 7]. Next, CPU determines whether the imagedisplaying program has been recorded on the CD-R. If the imagedisplaying program has not been recorded, then the storage means copiesthe image displaying program onto the CD-R [(j) in FIG. 7]. After theimage displaying program is positively recorded, CD-R drive sends a“copy end” signal to the CPU [(k) in FIG. 7], then, CPU orders the CD-Rdrive to eject the CD-R having the image displaying program [(k) in FIG.7], and further, displays “end of copy” on the display device [(m) inFIG. 7].

Additionally, writing of the image data and writing of the program areperformed separately, because there is the possibility that user 2employs an information recording medium in which the image displayingprogram has already been stored. However, it is also possible to make astructure in which when a blank CD is employed, copying signal receivingmeans 13 a receives the specified image data copying signal, next, copydata production means 13 b produces the copy data including the imagedata and the image displaying program, after which writing means 13 cwrites the image data and the image displaying program, as oneoperation. Further, it is also possible to have a structure in whichafter information recording medium 7 is inserted into the input section,or a digital device is connected to the input section, a list of imagedata is displayed on the display device, and the image data to be copiedis selected via the input device.

By executing the copying program on information recording mediumproduction terminal 3 a, user 2 only needs to insert digital camera 5 orcell-phone 6 incorporating a picture-capturing function, or inserts onlyinformation recording medium 7, into information recording mediumproduction terminal 3 a, the image data, recorded in the digital deviceor information recording medium 7,is automatically read out, andrecorded together with the image displaying program for displaying theimage data, so that second information recording medium 11 is produced.Accordingly, user 2 can easily view the image data, while using computerterminal 2 a.

EFFECTS OF THE INVENTION

As described above, according to the program and the informationrecording medium of the present invention, in which said program isrecorded, the image data can be easily displayed, and the targeted imagedata can also be easily displayed via the desired display method,without separately selecting the image data, or setting the process orthe display.

Because, the copying program, which copies the targeted image data andthe image displaying program for displaying the image data, and theimage data or the image displaying program, as desired, are set togetherand stored in first information recording medium 10, and therefore, theimage data can be viewed via the image reproducing device, such as acomputer terminal, a DVD player, or a DVD recorder. Further, because thecopying program stored in first information recording medium 10,receives the specified image data copy signal which was sent uponpressing of the button provided on the screen displayed by the imagedisplaying program, which produced the copy data including the imagedata, the image displaying program, the data relating to the image data,after which it recorded the copy data into second information recordingmedium 11. Accordingly, when the user inserts second informationrecording medium 11 into the computer terminal, and activates thecomputer terminal, the image data is easily displayed.

1. A program, comprising: an image displaying program for using acomputer to function as an image displaying device to display imagesbased on image data by a predetermined displaying method; and a copyingprogram for using the computer to function as a receiving device toreceive a specified image data copying signal which specifies image dataas an object to be copied, whereby the specified image is displayed fromamong the image data by the image displaying program on the displaymeans via the predetermined expressing method, and for using thecomputer to function as a copying device to copy the specified imagedata and the image displaying program into a predetermined area, afterthe computer receives the specified image data copying signal.
 2. Theprogram in claim 1, wherein the image data to be copied includes: imagedata which is an original base of the image to be displayed on the imagedisplaying device via the predetermined method, or image data which havebeen processed or produced based on the image data as the original base.3. The program in claim 2, wherein the image data processed or producedbased on the image data as the original base includes: motion image datawhich is one in which predetermined difference data is added to theimage data as the original base, or image data used as a design printcombined by the image data as the original base.
 4. The program in claim1, for using the computer to function as the coping device which copiesinto the predetermined area, at least any one of: setting information todisplay the image on the displaying device via the predetermined method,music/sound information which is reproduced when the image is displayed,or ordering information for ordering prints based on the image data. 5.An information recording medium, comprising: an image displaying programfor using a computer to function as an image displaying device todisplay images based on image data by a predetermined displaying method;and a copying program for using the computer to function as a receivingdevice to receive a specified image data copying signal which specifiesimage data as an object to be copied, whereby a specified image isdisplayed by the image displaying program on the image displaying devicevia the predetermined displaying method, and for using the computer tofunction as a copying device to copy specified image data and the imagedisplaying program into a predetermined area, after the computerreceives the specified image data copying signal.
 6. An informationrecording medium, comprising: image data; an image displaying programfor using a computer to function as an image displaying device todisplay images based on image data by a predetermined displaying method;and a copying program for using the computer to function as a receivingdevice to receive a specified image data copying signal which specifiesimage data as an object to be copied, whereby a specified image isdisplayed by the image displaying program on the image displaying devicevia the predetermined displaying method, and for using the computer as acopying device to copy specified image data and the image displayingprogram into a predetermined area, after the computer receives thespecified image data copying signal.
 7. An information recording medium,comprising: image data; and a copying program for using a computer tofunction as a receiving device to receive a specified image data copyingsignal which specifies image data as an object to be copied, and forusing the computer to function as a copying device to copy specifiedimage data and the image displaying program into a predetermined area,after the computer receives the specified image data copying signal. 8.The information recording medium in claim 5, wherein the image data tobe copied includes: image data which is an original base of the image tobe displayed on the displaying device via the predetermined method, orimage data which have been processed or produced based on the image dataas the original base.
 9. The information recording medium in claim 8,wherein the image data which have been processed or produced based onthe image data includes: motion image data which is one in which apredetermined difference data is added to the image data as the originalbase, or image data for a design print in which a plurality of the imagedata as the original base are combined.
 10. The information recordingmedium in claim 5, for using the computer to function as the copingdevice which copies into the predetermined area, at least any one of:setting information to display the image on the image displaying devicevia the predetermined method, music/sound information which isreproduced when the image is displayed, or ordering information forordering prints based on the image data.
 11. An information recordingmedium which is readable by a computer, comprising: image data; a firstprogram for using a computer to function as a receiving device of printorder data signals for a print order based on the image data, and formaking the computer to function as a device for producing a print orderdata file based on the print order data signals; and a copying programas a second program for using the computer to function as a receivingdevice of specified image data copying signals to specify the image dataas an object to be copied, and for using the computer to function as acopying device to copy the image data which is specified by thespecified image data copying signals, the print order data file, and thefirst program, into a predetermined area, after the computer receivesthe specified image data copying signals.